What is human rights law?

Human rights law is a form of law that seeks to protect the basic rights and freedoms of individuals. In California, human rights law is framed by the state Constitution and a number of statutes, regulations and court decisions. Human rights law encompasses a range of civil and political rights, such as the right to life, freedom of speech, assembly, and expression; the right to be free from discrimination; the right to enjoy fair wages, protection from exploitation, and freedom from arbitrary arrest or detention; and the right to a fair and impartial trial. It also encompasses social, economic, and cultural rights such as the right to education, housing, health care, and employment. In California, human rights law is enforced both at the federal level and at the state level. Federal laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, prohibit discrimination based on disability, while federal and state courts adjudicate cases brought against individuals or organizations that violate human rights laws. In addition, California has enacted laws that prohibit discrimination in public services and employment. For example, the Unruh Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics. In summary, human rights law is a form of law that seeks to protect the basic rights and freedoms of individuals. It covers a range of civil and political rights, social, economic, and cultural rights, and is enforced both at the federal and state levels in California.

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